trusted insight: HVAC
Emergency services and costs can vary Take time to ensure you get a fair offer Whether it’s for a broken furnace, a sewer backup or a gas leak, finding a contractor who responds quickly in emergencies is important to minimizing damage in your home. While every minute counts, doing some quick research could save trouble down the road. Get three written estimates and check credentials before hiring a plumbing, heating, ventilation or air conditioning contractor. In Alberta and B.C., refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics and plumbers must hold a certification of qualification or be a registered apprentice. Gasfitters in Alberta must also hold such certification, while gasfitters in B.C. must be registered contractors or licensed employees of registered contractors to install or alter a gas system. To find out about the qualifications of any contractor you’re considering in Alberta, call Alberta Apprenticeship and Training toll-free at 310-0000 followed by 403-297-6457 or go to tradesecrets.alberta.ca. In B.C., call the Industry Training Authority toll-free at 1-866-660-6011 or visit itabc.ca. Your BBB also recommends checking whether your contractor is properly licensed, asking the contractor for references, and following up on references. If you have to cold-call a contractor because of an emergency, you can make sure you get a
fair offer. Ask for a flat-rate price for the repairs so you can call around and set the job’s price before a contractor arrives. If a contractor won’t give you a flat rate, ask for other options and continue to seek other estimates. How companies charge for their services and products varies widely. When you get an estimate, ask what is provided for the price quoted. Service call rates also vary by region and may not always include the price of repairs. Your contractor should always: • D iagnose the problem and explain what needs to be done in terms you understand. • A s a courtesy, use drop sheets, service mats or other equipment to protect the area being worked in. • T ry to comply with manufacturers’ specifications so warranties remain valid. In some emergencies, a contractor may have to do something that voids your warranty in order to stop the problem quickly. • E xplain any new guarantee or warranty provided as well as its limitations. • S how and explain the work that’s been done. • R echeck the work if you have concerns. To find BBB-accredited plumbing, heating, ventilation or air conditioning contractors, see the listings on pages 37 to 39 or calgary.bbb.org. t
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